Make the Most of the Holiday Season

Shirley Palmer, founder and CEO of Shirley Palmer, LLC, is a master at helping others overcome a negative mindset that oftentimes accompanies the holiday season.

“The holidays signal happy feelings and warmth of relationships for so many, but at the same time, we know that they can also bring about negative feelings,” said Palmer. “There are simple ways that a person can overcome those feelings of negativity and have a happier, healthier holiday season in all ways.” Here, Palmer, author of 12 Words: Think It-Feel It-Do It (Brown Books Publishing Group), shares her smartest holiday strategies:

1. KEEP IT REAL

Instead of playing the old record of memories of previous holidays allow yourself, to visualize a great holiday. Focus on the opportunity of downtime, the possibility of fun, excitement, delicious home cooked food and positive family stories.

2. DO IT YOUR WAY

As Frank Sinatra said, “I Did It My Way.” Make this your mantra this holiday season. Don’t focus on people pleasing and find a way to enjoy it, live it and just be you. Remember this life is yours for living, so choose wisely and from your own perspective.

3. BE KIND

Kindness is one of the most awesome gifts you can give to others and yourself. No matter what situation arises this holiday season focus on being kind. We never know what turmoil someone else is going through in their lives, and the one thing they might need today is a kind word or a hug.

4. TAKE A MOMENT

Holiday season is one of the busiest in our annual calendar and before you know it, it is over. Allow yourself to find moments where you can savor the joy, the happiness, the peace and the love amongst your family and friends. It is there if you allow yourself to see and feel it.

5. KNOW YOU CAN

Lose the negative mindset and know you can fully enjoy the holiday break when you detach yourself from the emotional baggage of others. Acknowledge what is going on, what is real, what’s a game and, most importantly, have an attitude of gratitude and embrace the fun side of the holiday season.